Paula J. Bailey, Ed.D. is the Superintendent at Acushnet Public Schools. Dr. Bailey has been working in education for more than 30 years with the majority of her experience being in New Bedford Public Schools (NBPS), an urban district in southeastern Massachusetts. As the superintendent in Acushnet she has led her team by developing a district strategic plan that has improved culture, academic performance and community partnerships. In fact, in 2022, Acushnet Elementary School was one of only two schools in the state and 55 schools nationwide to be honored as a National Distinguished School of Recognition.

She began her career teaching in a Chapter 766 school for children with moderate to severe disabilities. She taught at the elementary level in NBPS before moving into administration as the district summer school principal, assistant principal and principal of an elementary and then a large middle school. She worked in central office prior to becoming the Superintendent in Acushnet.

Dr. Bailey has her Bachelor’s degree in elementary and special education from Bridgewater State College. She returned to Bridgewater and received her Master’s Degree in School Leadership. Dr. Bailey earned her Doctorate Degree in Educational Leadership from Northeastern University.